toxicodendron vernicifluum
The lacquer artist carefully taps the Toxicodendron vernicifluum to collect its sap.
Noun 1. A small deciduous tree native to East Asia: A tree species belonging to the sumac family (Anacardiaceae), known for producing a sap that is a potent skin irritant to most people. This sap is the source of lacquer. 2. The source plant for urushi lacquer: The specific tree cultivated and tapped for its sap, which is processed to create traditional Japanese, Chinese, and Korean lacquerware.
- The term is used as a formal botanical name to identify the specific lacquer tree species.
- It is primarily used in scientific, horticultural, or art historical contexts when discussing the source of natural lacquer.
- Scientific Context: " is closely related to poison ivy and requires careful handling."
- Cultural/Historical Context: "Traditional lacquer is harvested from ."
- Descriptive Context: "The garden included a specimen of , noted for its brilliant autumn foliage."
- The genus name Toxicodendron literally means "poison tree," directly referencing the toxic properties of the plant's sap.
- In art conservation, understanding is essential for properly restoring and preserving antique lacquer objects.
- Lacquer tree: The common English name for .
- Urushi: The Japanese name for both the tree and the refined lacquer sap obtained from it.
- Varnish tree: A less specific common name sometimes used for this and similar trees.
- Toxicodendron: The genus, which includes other plants like poison ivy () and poison oak.
- Lacquer tree
- Varnish tree (context-dependent)
- (an older, synonymous botanical classification)
This term has a very specific, technical meaning as a botanical name. It does not have broad or idiomatic meanings in everyday language. Its core significance is always tied to being the source plant for natural lacquer and its toxic properties.
The lacquer artist carefully taps the Toxicodendron vernicifluum to collect its sap.
- small Asiatic tree yielding a toxic exudate from which lacquer is obtained